Mrs. Carolyn Wagner was recently announced as Teacher of the Year for Woodrow Wilson High School.  She teaches World Studies, Advanced Placement World History, and Advanced Placement European History. She has been teaching at WWHS for 18 years, and in total 24 years. Wagner states some reasons people should study history. “History helps us understand people and societies. History helps us understand change and how the society we live in came to be. History contributes to a moral understanding. History is the story of the human race.” Mrs. Wagner was inspired by two of her teachers, Mary Thomas and Cynthia Belvins, to enter the world of academics. She added that she learned so much from them and realized she would like to learn about history. She visited Colonial Williamsburg when she was 12 years old on a family trip and was very interested in learning more. She loves to visit historical sites and to study maps. She also loves to research wars and battles.

She likes teaching high school because she likes talking to students about history. Some of her students realize that they enjoy learning as much as she does, so it makes it fun. Her goals are always to help her students increase their writing skills and to be a person that cares for her students. Her favorite thing about teaching high school is getting to know all of her students and sharing their joys and experiences.

Her biggest inspiration is learning. When she teaches about history, it helps her to learn it. She has an insatiable need to learn. Sharing with her students allows her to continually learn. She also loves to talk and tell stories. “I feel humbled by all the support and well wishes. I’m just here doing my job and it’s nice to be recognized.” Her advice for students would be to never stop learning. “Learning is something that can’t be taken away. Pursue a future that brings you happiness. Pursue your passion and never give up.”